Rent is expensive these days. There are more and more people stuck in a difficult place where they can’t pay rent on time. If this is you, don’t worry! There are some options to help you out.
Not being able to pay rent on time is a scary thing. Financial stress is not uncommon for most people in the past few years, so there are more and more resources to help you out.Â
There are also a bunch of ways you can avoid this problem again. If you can start saving money with a few tricks, you’ll be okay for when the next bill comes. It just takes knowing what they are and putting them into practice.
Make sure you do this if you can’t pay rent on time.
Before you dive into the help you can receive, there are a few things you have to check off your adulting list. It’s essential to be responsible in as many ways as you can in this process.Â
Although knowing the resources are essential, there are a few steps you have to take when your rent is late. Make sure you do these things to help the process and remain trustworthy to your landlord.
Before anything else, go ahead and check your renter’s agreement. See what your grace period is if you have one at all. There may not be a penalty for your late rent, depending on how late it actually is.
Now, make sure you talk to your landlord. This is not going to be a fun conversation most likely. However, they deserve to know what’s going on with the money you owe them as soon as you know.Â
You can describe your situation, but it may do you more good to describe your plan for action. No, you don’t have the money for rent right now, but you know exactly where and how you’ll get it. This will some respect and understanding from the landlord to hopefully soften the blow of the late payment.
Check out these resources.
Being unable to pay rent can be one of life’s biggest stressors. The fear of being kicked out can rock you to your core.Â
There are some resources out there to help people who are struggling financially. Be sure to check these options out to make sure you can get back on track financially.
Federal Housing Help
The government offers tons of help with housing costs. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development has plenty of options for people who can’t pay rent on time. Check out their website and scroll through all the options to see what works best for you.
211
This is another great resource you can use when you’re struggling to pay rent. By calling 211 or looking at their website, you can find help tailored to your situation.Â
211 offers help with food, housing, and mental health services. They have offices in each state so that you can get localized help for your situation. Call them to see what your specific city has to offer those who need financial assistance.Â
Emergency Rental Assistance Program
This program helps people who can’t pay rent on time. Just call the number in your state and fill them in on your situation. They are only open during typical business hours, so make sure you call in time to get the help you need.
Salvation Army
The Salvation Army offers a one-time grant to help you pay for rent. If you need this immediate, one-time help paying rent, go to your local Salvation Army.Â
The Department of Social Services
Depending on the funding at the time, Social Services has been known to help out with rent payments when needed. This is typically a one-time grant. They might not have the proper funding to help you right now, but you never know until you call to ask!
Catholic Charities
Catholic Charities USA offers grants to help in emergencies. This could help you pay rent, utilities, or other expenses throughout the month.
Society of St. Vincent De Paul
This is a ministry involved in certain Catholic churches. This is another one-time help for paying rent. However, not every Catholic church partners with this organization so it might take a little calling around.
Modest Needs
This is an organization that gives up to $1,000 in grants for a single emergency expense. This is for people who currently have a job, so if this is you, go ahead and apply on the website!
Use these tricks to save money.
If you are struggling to pay rent because you’re living paycheck to paycheck, you’re going to have to break this cycle. These might not save you this month, but you will need to practice some of this before next month.Â
You don’t want to focus so much on paying this bill that next month’s bill you’re in twice as much trouble. It’s best to think ahead now so that this issue isn’t likely to happen again.Â
Check out these ways to save money on energy costs each month. Just putting a few of these into practice could save you tons!
Most importantly, keep a level head.
It’s easy to go a little crazy when stressing about finances. However, one of the most important things you can do is learn how to calm yourself down and think clearly. If you can do this, you can figure almost anything out.
Sit down and consider all of your options for financial help. Make a list of things you need to do in order to get the money you need. Think of all the people who may be able to point you toward the right resources.
Talk with your landlord about the struggles you’re facing. Let them know your practical, thought-out plan for getting the money you need.Â
Make sure you keep to a strict budget. Learn ways to save on utility costs, groceries, and other expenses. This will save you a ton in the long run!
Remember, this happens to a lot of people. Many people can’t pay rent on time. You’ll find a way to get back on top of your finances!
